'Don't do it' - Highland family bereaved by suicide urges those with suicidal thoughts to get support

A Black Isle family impacted by suicide are urging those struggling to get the help they need.

It's 8 years since Patrick and Wendy Mullery, from Cromarty, started James Support Group in his name just months after his death.

They now support around 2000 people every year, delivering sessions across Highland and Moray.

On Mental Health Awareness Week, we spoke to the couple who are keen to highlight the pain felt by those left behind.

'The effect it has doesn't go away.'

James' mum Wendy said she has suffered with severe anxiety over the years since his passing and urges those with suicidal thoughts to get help.

She said: "The effect it has just doesn't go away.

"You're living with it, but I know a lot of mums, sisters etc who are still struggling 10 years on and more. 

"Don't do it, it is a permanent solution to a temporary problem. 

"The trouble is, that problem can be resolved by getting help.

"It still gets me upset, sometimes I can't even say his name without crying, that's how deep it is.  

"I'm sure there's lots of mums, dads, sisters, who would understand what I'm going through and what we're going through."

James Support Group now provide monthly meetings in Inverness, Dingwall, Invergordon, Thurso, Elgin, Fort Willian and appointment sessions in Aviemore, Nairn, Ullapool and Grantown on Spey.

Patrick explained how he thinks their approach is effective.

He said: "I don't know of any other group that does it like we do. 

"What I mean by that is we support people who are bereaved by suicide, but also helping people who have suicidal thoughts.

"We bring both of those types into the same group meetings. 

"We support about 2000 people every year.

"We've got more volunteers now than we've ever had and we are offering support to a hell of a lot of people.

"It's this bitter sweet thing where people come to the meetings, which is great they are coming, but it is also bitter because of the reasons they are coming."

If you require support, you can contact James Support Group via their 24 hour helpline on 07563 572471 or email [email protected]